**The Carolina Hurricanes Eyeing Florida Panthers’ Free Agents**
Congratulations to the Florida Panthers on winning the Stanley Cup. After losing to the Las Vegas Golden Knights last season, the Panthers learned, grew hungrier, and excelled in the playoffs. The Carolina Hurricanes, among other teams, may look to emulate Florida’s successful blueprint. As they say, if you can’t beat them, join them.
Stanley Cup champions often lose key players to maintain their core. The Panthers have several depth pieces entering free agency, including top-scoring forward Sam Reinhart. The Hurricanes, facing potential losses of Teuvo Teravainen and Jake Guentzel, might feel some desperation.
Carolina’s defensemen Brady Skjei, Brett Pesce, and Tony DeAngelo are also potential departures, leaving significant gaps. Florida has three free-agent defensemen who could replace Skjei and Pesce. Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Brandon Montour are prime candidates.
**Oliver Ekman-Larsson**
Ekman-Larsson, former captain of the Arizona Coyotes, had a tumultuous journey since being drafted 6th overall in 2009. Traded to the Vancouver Canucks for the 2021-22 season, his performance and the team struggled. His $8.25 million contract led to a buyout, but he found success in Florida, winning a Stanley Cup.
Playing 80 games, Ekman-Larsson scored 32 points, with 9 goals and 11 power-play points. Known for his skating, vision, and defensive play, he could seamlessly replace Skjei. While his previous contract was $2.25 million, signing him this summer might cost around $4 million, still less than Skjei’s market value.
**Brandon Montour**
Montour, a right-handed defenseman, offers grit and offensive skill, suitable to replace Pesce. Despite being smaller in stature, Montour excels in both power play and penalty kill situations. He scored 8 goals and 33 points in 66 games this year. His best season saw 73 points, including 31 power-play points.
Entering his 10th NHL season, Montour’s injury history might lower his price, but he could still command over $6 million. His acquisition would bolster the power play, mitigating the loss of forwards to free agency.
**Brett Pesce’s Potential Departure**
With the offseason approaching, Carolina must decide on players without contracts. Defenseman Brett Pesce, a key player since being drafted in 2013, is rumored to be committed to another Eastern Conference team. His six-year contract at $4.025 million per season has ended, and he is one of the top available defensemen.
Pesce’s performance declined last season, recording only 10 points in 70 games. With many players to target, Pesce might be left behind. The Canes aim to replace him cost-effectively, preserving funds for forwards.
**Brady Skjei’s Importance**
New general manager Eric Tulsky should prioritize re-signing Skjei, who played crucial defensive and offensive roles. Skjei, 30, recorded 47 points last season and fits well in Carolina’s system. Experts predict Skjei might command over $7 million annually on a 5-6 year contract. Extending the contract term could ease the cap hit.
**Preseason Excitement**
The Carolina Hurricanes have announced a six-game preseason schedule, including matches against Nashville, Tampa Bay, and Florida. The first game is on September 24th, with the preseason concluding on October 5th. Fans can expect an exciting offseason as the Canes finalize their roster for the upcoming season.
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